New research backs up what many already knew: fluoride is beneficial in fighting tooth decay.

The report shows that fluoride works by making an impact on the adhesion force of bacteria that get caked on teeth and generate cavity-causing acid. The new information was determined after experiments concluded that fluoride lowers the ability of the bacteria to stick to the teeth. The bacteria can be washed away through brushing, saliva or other methods.

The information appears in the journal Langumir.

The controversy regarding fluoride’s positive or negative impact has raged on for years. Still, many previous studies have indicated that fluoride strengthens the enamel coating that protects teeth from acid. Fluoride has also been shown to harden a thin layer of enamel.

More studies on fluoride and its impact on teeth will continue to be conducted.